36 best restaurants in Edinburgh to book right now

Discover Edinburgh's Top Culinary Delights: 36 Must-Visit Restaurants

Embark On a Michelin-Starred Journey in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, a city renowned for its historic charm and architectural splendour, is also a sanctuary for gastronomy enthusiasts. A constellation of Michelin-starred restaurants awaits the discerning food-lover. Partake in the symphony of flavours at The Kitchin, where locally sourced Scottish ingredients are transformed into French-inspired dishes. Further elevate your culinary experience at , where the eponymous chef's mastery of French cuisine earns accolades time and time again.

For those looking for innovation, Aizle is the epitome of modern dining, featuring a "no-menu" concept that evolves with the seasons. Similarly, Fhior offers a thoughtfully curated menu showcasing the best of what's local and abundant.

Edinburgh's Signature Dishes: A Foodie's Guide

The Edinburgh food scene is a treasure trove of signature dishes that reflect both tradition and innovation. Treasured local haunts such as Bon Vivant serve classics with a twist, like their famous whisky pâté. Meanwhile, Harajuku Kitchen offers Japanese gyoza that transport you straight to Tokyo's bustling streets.

For a taste of Edinburgh's international palate, Baba showcases vibrant Levantine flavours, while at Saboteur, the fragrance of Vietnamese spices fills the air. A step-by-step journey through Edinburgh's culinary landscape also leads to Timberyard, where the smoked duck is a must-try.

Unveiling Our Selection Criteria for Edinburgh's Finest Eateries

To curate our list of Edinburgh's top 36 restaurants, we considered multiple factors. Cuisine innovation, use of local ingredients, customer reviews, atmosphere, and service excellence all played critical roles in our rigorous selection process. Our goal was to encompass the variety and richness of Edinburgh's culinary offerings.

Each establishment offers a distinct dining experience—from the rustic coziness of Bross Bagels to the minimalist elegance of Locanda de Gusti. The journey through Edinburgh's dining scene is eclectic and full of surprises, catering to every palate.

Epicurean Escapades: Edinburgh's Finest Dining Experiences

Navigating Edinburgh's New Town Cuisine

Contemporary Scottish Flavours

Edinburgh's New Town is a treasure trove for the culinary adventurer. Contemporary Scottish cuisine here is characterized by its innovative use of local ingredients, creating a unique dining experience that both surprises and delights. Restaurants such as 'The Artisan Chef' showcase dishes where traditional Scottish produce meets avant-garde presentation.

Chefs in this part of the city are not just cookers but true culinary artists. Expect to find menus filled with fresh seafood caught from Scottish waters, game from the Highlands, and an array of locally sourced vegetables and herbs that tell the story of Scotland's bountiful landscape.

Global Gastronomy: International Infusions

For the gourmand who hungers for worldwide flavours, Edinburgh's New Town offers a vast panorama of international cuisine. From the intense spices of an authentic Indian curry to the delicate balance of a Japanese kaiseki meal, the options whisk you around the globe without leaving the cobblestones of this historic city.

The fusion restaurants are particularly noteworthy, bringing an international twist to Scottish ingredients. 'Bistro du Monde,' for example, is famed for its Haggis Spring Rolls, which perfectly symbolize this eclectic culinary marriage.

Old Town's Historic Bites

Traditional Scottish Comfort Foods

The Old Town's narrow alleys and windswept closes are home to some of the city's most heartwarming traditional fare. Here, you can find the time-honored comfort foods that have been the backbone of Scottish home cooking for generations.

Visit 'The Hearthstone Inn' for a dish of stovies that will warm you even on the mistiest Edinburgh day. Don't miss their renowned Cullen Skink, a creamy haddock soup that’s sure to be a treat for the taste buds.

Reviving Heritage: Classic Eateries with a Modern Twist

The Old Town is not just a place to relive the culinary past; it's also where you can see traditional Scottish dishes being revitalized with a contemporary edge. At 'The Thistle's Shadow,' they pride themselves on updating classic recipes with unexpected ingredients and modern cooking techniques.

Such twists not only keep the local cuisine lively but also entice food lovers seeking a touch of novelty in their dining experience.

Navigating Edinburgh's New Town Cuisine

Contemporary Scottish Flavours

Edinburgh's New Town is a treasure trove for the culinary adventurer. Contemporary Scottish cuisine here is characterized by its innovative use of local ingredients, creating a unique dining experience that both surprises and delights. Restaurants such as 'The Artisan Chef' showcase dishes where traditional Scottish produce meets avant-garde presentation.

Chefs in this part of the city are not just cookers but true culinary artists. Expect to find menus filled with fresh seafood caught from Scottish waters, game from the Highlands, and an array of locally sourced vegetables and herbs that tell the story of Scotland's bountiful landscape.

Global Gastronomy: International Infusions

For the gourmand who hungers for worldwide flavours, Edinburgh's New Town offers a vast panorama of international cuisine. From the intense spices of an authentic Indian curry to the delicate balance of a Japanese kaiseki meal, the options whisk you around the globe without leaving the cobblestones of this historic city.

The fusion restaurants are particularly noteworthy, bringing an international twist to Scottish ingredients. 'Bistro du Monde,' for example, is famed for its Haggis Spring Rolls, which perfectly symbolize this eclectic culinary marriage.

Contemporary Scottish Flavours

Edinburgh's New Town is a treasure trove for the culinary adventurer. Contemporary Scottish cuisine here is characterized by its innovative use of local ingredients, creating a unique dining experience that both surprises and delights. Restaurants such as 'The Artisan Chef' showcase dishes where traditional Scottish produce meets avant-garde presentation.

Chefs in this part of the city are not just cookers but true culinary artists. Expect to find menus filled with fresh seafood caught from Scottish waters, game from the Highlands, and an array of locally sourced vegetables and herbs that tell the story of Scotland's bountiful landscape.

Global Gastronomy: International Infusions

For the gourmand who hungers for worldwide flavours, Edinburgh's New Town offers a vast panorama of international cuisine. From the intense spices of an authentic Indian curry to the delicate balance of a Japanese kaiseki meal, the options whisk you around the globe without leaving the cobblestones of this historic city.

The fusion restaurants are particularly noteworthy, bringing an international twist to Scottish ingredients. 'Bistro du Monde,' for example, is famed for its Haggis Spring Rolls, which perfectly symbolize this eclectic culinary marriage.

Old Town's Historic Bites

Traditional Scottish Comfort Foods

The Old Town's narrow alleys and windswept closes are home to some of the city's most heartwarming traditional fare. Here, you can find the time-honored comfort foods that have been the backbone of Scottish home cooking for generations.

Visit 'The Hearthstone Inn' for a dish of stovies that will warm you even on the mistiest Edinburgh day. Don't miss their renowned Cullen Skink, a creamy haddock soup that’s sure to be a treat for the taste buds.

Reviving Heritage: Classic Eateries with a Modern Twist

The Old Town is not just a place to relive the culinary past; it's also where you can see traditional Scottish dishes being revitalized with a contemporary edge. At 'The Thistle's Shadow,' they pride themselves on updating classic recipes with unexpected ingredients and modern cooking techniques.

Such twists not only keep the local cuisine lively but also entice food lovers seeking a touch of novelty in their dining experience.

Traditional Scottish Comfort Foods

The Old Town's narrow alleys and windswept closes are home to some of the city's most heartwarming traditional fare. Here, you can find the time-honored comfort foods that have been the backbone of Scottish home cooking for generations.

Visit 'The Hearthstone Inn' for a dish of stovies that will warm you even on the mistiest Edinburgh day. Don't miss their renowned Cullen Skink, a creamy haddock soup that’s sure to be a treat for the taste buds.

Reviving Heritage: Classic Eateries with a Modern Twist

The Old Town is not just a place to relive the culinary past; it's also where you can see traditional Scottish dishes being revitalized with a contemporary edge. At 'The Thistle's Shadow,' they pride themselves on updating classic recipes with unexpected ingredients and modern cooking techniques.

Such twists not only keep the local cuisine lively but also entice food lovers seeking a touch of novelty in their dining experience.

Specialty Dining in Edinburgh: From Vegan to Seafood

Plant-Based Perfection: Edinburgh's Best Vegan Restaurants

As the vegan lifestyle continues to blossom, Edinburgh has kept pace, offering a plethora of plant-based dining experiences that dazzle the palate. The city takes pride in its diverse vegan scene which ranges from casual cafés to high-end gourmet restaurants. Whether you fancy a hearty vegan haggis or desire an artfully crafted plant-based dish, Edinburgh's vegan restaurants are set to surprise even the most discerning of foodies.

What elevates Edinburgh's vegan venues is their commitment to sustainability and the use of locally-sourced ingredients. Chefs across the city have embraced the challenge of creating innovative and satisfying dishes without the use of animal products, achieving rich flavors through the versatility of vegetables, legumes, nuts, and grains.

Fresh from the Sea: Top Seafood Spots in Edinburgh

For those with a penchant for the pescatarian fare, Edinburgh's seafood restaurants offer fresh, locally-sourced catch served in settings ranging from the quaint harborside fisherman's cottages to sleek, modern establishments. The city's geographical location allows for an impressive variety of seafood, delivered from the surrounding waters to your plate with minimal delay.

Discerning seafood aficionados will relish the opportunity to indulge in Scottish staples such as smoked salmon, haddock, and the famed Cullen Skink. Enhanced by Edinburgh's historic charm, a meal here is both a taste adventure and a dip into Scotland's rich maritime heritage.

Plant-Based Perfection: Edinburgh's Best Vegan Restaurants

As the vegan lifestyle continues to blossom, Edinburgh has kept pace, offering a plethora of plant-based dining experiences that dazzle the palate. The city takes pride in its diverse vegan scene which ranges from casual cafés to high-end gourmet restaurants. Whether you fancy a hearty vegan haggis or desire an artfully crafted plant-based dish, Edinburgh's vegan restaurants are set to surprise even the most discerning of foodies.

What elevates Edinburgh's vegan venues is their commitment to sustainability and the use of locally-sourced ingredients. Chefs across the city have embraced the challenge of creating innovative and satisfying dishes without the use of animal products, achieving rich flavors through the versatility of vegetables, legumes, nuts, and grains.

Fresh from the Sea: Top Seafood Spots in Edinburgh

For those with a penchant for the pescatarian fare, Edinburgh's seafood restaurants offer fresh, locally-sourced catch served in settings ranging from the quaint harborside fisherman's cottages to sleek, modern establishments. The city's geographical location allows for an impressive variety of seafood, delivered from the surrounding waters to your plate with minimal delay.

Discerning seafood aficionados will relish the opportunity to indulge in Scottish staples such as smoked salmon, haddock, and the famed Cullen Skink. Enhanced by Edinburgh's historic charm, a meal here is both a taste adventure and a dip into Scotland's rich maritime heritage.

Experience Exquisite Exclusive Menus

Seasonal Sensations: Edinburgh's Seasonal Menu Highlights

When traveling to Edinburgh, one must immerse themselves in the culinary rhythms of the city, where each season brings a new wave of flavors. Local chefs take pride in crafting exclusive menus that celebrate the freshest ingredients available. From earthy autumn mushroom assortments to summertime seafood feasts, the city's eatery scene leaves no stone unturned.

Spring in Edinburgh ushers in light and vibrant dishes, featuring tender greens and newly-hatched pea shoots, all drizzled with zesty dressings. As the city blooms, so does your plate! In contrast, winter menus embody coziness with hearty root vegetables and robust meats simmering in rich, indulgent sauces. Each season offers its exclusive touch, ensuring a unique dining experience with every visit.

Chef's Selection: Tasting Menus to Tempt Your Palate

For those adventurous food connoisseurs, Edinburgh's chefs craft exclusive tasting menus that take guests on a gastronomic journey. These expertly curated selections are a collage of the chef's latest innovations, traditional Scottish cuisine, and global flavors, all exquisitely presented on your plate.

Tasting menus vary from establishment to establishment, both in length and inspiration. While some chefs might offer a concise 5-course exploration of the classics, others push the envelope with up to 10 courses of unexpected flavor twists. Regardless of the number, each bite is guaranteed to be a revelation of culinary expertise and local bounty.

Step into the world of personalized haute cuisine, where the chefs are not just cooks, but artists and storytellers, who weave the tales of Scottish produce into every course they meticulously plate. This is more than dining; it's a celebration of Scottish culture and creativity one bite at a time.

Local Recommendations: Edinburgh's Hidden Gems

Neighbourhood Nooks: Locals' Best-Kept Secrets

Edinburgh, with its historic charm and cobbled lanes, has much more to offer beyond the well-trodden Royal Mile. Take a stroll through the quaint neighbourhood of Stockbridge, known for its vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. Here, you'll discover quirky boutiques, artisan coffee shops, and the scenic Water of Leith walkway. The Sunday market is a particular delight, offering a variety of local goods from handcrafted jewelry to organic produce.

Another hidden gem is the Dean Village, a picturesque and peaceful hamlet that feels a world away from the city buzz. Only a few minutes' walk from Princes Street, this enclave is cherished for its historical buildings and tranquil river walks.

For a touch of greenery, explore the lesser-known Hermitage of Braid—a nature reserve that boasts meandering trails, stunning views of the Braid Hills, and an abundance of wildlife. It is an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon picnic.

Off the Beaten Path: Discovering Unique Dining Spots

When it comes to dining, Edinburgh is a treasure trove of hidden culinary delights. The city's food scene is robust and eclectic, with small, independent restaurants serving up some of the most exciting dishes in Scotland.

Here's a guide to seeking out those unique dining experiences:

1. Begin at the Timberyard, a family-run establishment tucked away on Lady Lawson Street. With its emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, this spot is perfect for the conscientious eater.

2. For an intimate dining affair, locate the diminutive Table, which only seats eleven. The chefs here deliver adventurous tasting menus that showcase modern Scottish cuisine with a twist.

3. Seek out Lovecrumbs for your café culture fix. It's a cosy and creative space famously known for its cake selection, which often features boundary-pushing flavours.

4. Lastly, don't miss The Dogs on Hanover street — an unpretentious and affable place that offers straightforward, heartwarming dishes that locals swear by.

Culinary Journeys in Edinburgh: Themed and Concept Dining

Step into the Past: Historical Themed Restaurants

Edinburgh, with its rich history and architectural beauty, offers a feast for more than just the eyes. Home to several historical themed restaurants, visitors can indulge in a dining experience that transports them back in time. Among these eateries, you'll encounter the grandeur of medieval banquets, the intimate surroundings of a Renaissance dining room, and the hearty fare of an 18th-century tavern.

Each restaurant encapsulates an era with meticulous detail, from the authentic period costumes of the servers to the traditional recipes that have been preserved for centuries. These themed restaurants are perfect for those who wish to immerse themselves in the storied past of Scotland’s capital while enjoying a meal that is both educational and palate-pleasing.

Patrons are not only customers but become a part of the story, as they're encouraged to dress in period attire and partake in the evening's thematic entertainment. It's an enchanting dining experience that offers both a taste of history and a chance to engage with Edinburgh's cultural heritage.

Future Flavours: Futuristic and Modernist Eateries

Edinburgh may be famed for its historical roots, but it's also at the forefront of culinary innovation. Futuristic eateries in the city are redefining dining with a blend of science and artistry, offering a glimpse into the future of food. These modernist restaurants employ avant-garde techniques to transform familiar ingredients into unexpected delights, stretching the imagination and exciting the senses.

Engaging with cutting-edge technology such as molecular gastronomy, these establishments create dishes that are as visually arresting as they are gastronomically inventive. Here's a taste of what to expect:

The experience is enriched by the restaurants' ambiances, which often feature sleek, futuristic decor and unique lighting effects to complement the forward-thinking menu. Whether you're intrigued by the science behind the cuisine or just looking for an uncommon meal, Edinburgh's futuristic dining scene aims to provide unparalleled culinarily journeys.

Step into the Past: Historical Themed Restaurants

Edinburgh, with its rich history and architectural beauty, offers a feast for more than just the eyes. Home to several historical themed restaurants, visitors can indulge in a dining experience that transports them back in time. Among these eateries, you'll encounter the grandeur of medieval banquets, the intimate surroundings of a Renaissance dining room, and the hearty fare of an 18th-century tavern.

Each restaurant encapsulates an era with meticulous detail, from the authentic period costumes of the servers to the traditional recipes that have been preserved for centuries. These themed restaurants are perfect for those who wish to immerse themselves in the storied past of Scotland’s capital while enjoying a meal that is both educational and palate-pleasing.

Patrons are not only customers but become a part of the story, as they're encouraged to dress in period attire and partake in the evening's thematic entertainment. It's an enchanting dining experience that offers both a taste of history and a chance to engage with Edinburgh's cultural heritage.

Future Flavours: Futuristic and Modernist Eateries

Edinburgh may be famed for its historical roots, but it's also at the forefront of culinary innovation. Futuristic eateries in the city are redefining dining with a blend of science and artistry, offering a glimpse into the future of food. These modernist restaurants employ avant-garde techniques to transform familiar ingredients into unexpected delights, stretching the imagination and exciting the senses.

Engaging with cutting-edge technology such as molecular gastronomy, these establishments create dishes that are as visually arresting as they are gastronomically inventive. Here's a taste of what to expect:

The experience is enriched by the restaurants' ambiances, which often feature sleek, futuristic decor and unique lighting effects to complement the forward-thinking menu. Whether you're intrigued by the science behind the cuisine or just looking for an uncommon meal, Edinburgh's futuristic dining scene aims to provide unparalleled culinarily journeys.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth: Edinburgh’s Dessert Destinations

Artisanal Bakeshops and Patisseries

Edinburgh, a city as renowned for its rich history as it is for its culinary delights, offers a sweet escape into the world of sugary confections and exquisite bakes. The artisanal bakeshops and patisseries scattered across its iconic cobbled streets provide a mosaic of flavors that cater to every type of dessert aficionado. From the traditional Scottish shortbread to the sophisticated French tart, each establishment bakes with passion and a deep respect for culinary artistry.

Step into the comforting embrace of a local bakeshop, where the aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries fills the air. These small, often family-run businesses take pride in using traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients. Whether it's a bespoke bakery tucked away in the New Town or a patisserie serving up continental delights amidst the Old Town's historic backdrop, each venue offers a unique taste of Scotland's capital.

To give you a taste of the variety at your fingertips, here's a table listing some of the must-visit spots along with their signature offerings:

Delightful Dessert Bars and Ice Cream Parlours

For those whose love for desserts delves beyond the oven, Edinburgh's dessert bars and ice cream parlours offer indulgence to satisfy any sweet craving. With everything from Italian gelato to Scottish tablet ice cream, these dessert destinations pride themselves on their inventive flavors and high-quality ingredients.

The city's dessert bars present a cosmopolitan flair, showcasing a symphony of desserts often paired with creative cocktails or fine teas. These chic enclaves for the sweet-toothed sophisticate offer a stylish space to linger over a plate of delectable treats and a perfect cup of coffee.

As for the ice cream parlours, expect a warm welcome no matter the weather. They serve up scoops of joy in an array of traditional and unconventional flavors, wrapped in the charm of Old Town or enjoyed beachside with a view of the Firth of Forth. Indulge in the simple pleasure of velvety ice cream, a tangy sorbet, or a luxurious affogato.

A step-by-step guide for the ultimate ice cream experience in Edinburgh:

1. Begin your ice cream adventure on the vibrant, bustling Royal Mile.

2. Choose a locally inspired flavor like Scottish Raspberry or "Edinburgh Fog" for an authentic taste.

3. Stroll down to Princes Street Gardens, enjoying your treat amidst the beauty of the city's green oasis.

4. Complete your indulgence with a second scoop from a beachfront parlour while taking in the sights and sounds of the seaside.

Pairing Fine Wines and Brews with Your Meal

Vintner’s Selection: Restaurants with Top Wine Lists

Finding the perfect wine to complement a meal is a culinary quest like no other. Wine enthusiasts will be delighted to discover that a number of esteemed restaurants pride themselves on their meticulously curated wine lists. These establishments often house rare and vintage wines, providing the perfect accompaniment to each dish they serve.

For those passionate about pairing, sommeliers at these restaurants offer expertise that is sure to enhance your dining experience. Their knowledge spans from the full-bodied reds, perfect for a succulent steak, to the crisp whites that bring out the delicate flavors in seafood.

Below is a table highlighting an example of a top-notch restaurant's wine list with pairings for different meals:

Remember, the ideal pairing is about balance and harmony. The weight, texture, acidity, and sweetness of the wine should complement the flavor profile and components of your meal. When in doubt, ask for a taste and trust your palate!

Craft Beer and Pub Grub: A Local Tradition

When you think of comfort food, what often comes to mind is the classic pub grub—dishes that are hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. To elevate the experience, pairing such meals with the right craft beer is essential. Across the globe, local breweries have revived traditional brewing techniques to complement their region’s signature dishes with exceptional ales and lagers.

For a step-by-step guide on perfect beer and food pairings:

1. Consider the strength: Balance the intensity of your meal with your beer. A robust dish like a bacon cheeseburger goes well with a strong IPA.

2. Analyze flavors: Identify the dominant flavors in your dish. A spicy curry could use the cooling effect of a craft wheat beer.

3. Think about mouthfeel: Fatty foods may benefit from beers with high carbonation which can act as a palate cleanser, such as a pilsner.

4. Experiment with contrasts: Sometimes contrasting flavors create a harmonious experience. Try a sweet stout with a tart raspberry cheesecake.

5. Ask for local favorites: Engage with your server or bartender to learn about locally loved pairings. Every region has its gem!

The trend of microbreweries has also led to a new wave of pairing possibilities, with many establishments offering beer tasting flights designed to be enjoyed alongside their culinary offerings. Next time you're in a brewery, remember that the perfect partnership might just be a sip away.

Booking Your Culinary Adventure: Tips and Recommendations

The Best Times to Dine in Edinburgh: Reservations 101

Edinburgh is known for its vibrant food scene, contextualized by historic charm and modern innovation. When planning to indulge in the city's culinary offerings, booking ahead is a must. For fine dining, it is advisable to reserve a table at least two weeks in advance, particularly if your visit coincides with festivals like Fringe or Hogmanay when the city buzzes with visitors. For more casual dining experiences, a few days' notice is typically sufficient, yet for some of the popular spots, a week's heads-up ensures you aren't left waiting.

To capture the essence of Edinburgh's dining at its finest, consider lunchtime reservations. Many prestigious restaurants offer 'set lunch' menus, which provide the same high-end experience at a fraction of the evening cost. Early evening, usually around 5-6 PM, is also a strategic time to dine, as you might catch the early-bird specials, pacifying your palate without overwhelming your wallet. Lastly, for those who are seeking a truly local experience, a late dinner, starting from 9 PM onwards, is common among Scots and provides a more relaxed atmosphere.

Insider Tips: Making the Most of Your Edinburgh Dining Experience

When visiting Edinburgh, the secret to a memorable dining experience lies in embracing both the cuisine and the culture. Firstly, don't shy away from asking locals for their personal recommendations, as they will often point you towards hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path eateries that impress with authenticity. Furthermore, joining a guided food tour upon arrival can provide an overview of the culinary landscape and help you pinpoint which restaurants you'd like to return to for a full meal.

For those with adventurous palates, perusing the seasonal and locally sourced items on the menu is a must. Scotland takes pride in its local produce, from Aberdeen Angus steaks to fresh seafood from the North Sea. Specialties such as haggis or Cullen skink are not only a plunge into Scottish fare but also a story on a plate. Lastly, timing is everything; consider planning your dinner around sunset to enjoy the breathtaking Edinburgh skyline, adding an unforgettable backdrop to your dining experience.

Follow this step-by-step guide to make your dining bookings in Edinburgh:

1. Research and select your desired restaurants well in advance.

2. Check the restaurant's booking policies and preferred reservation platforms – some may use third-party websites, while others take bookings directly.

3. Plan your meal times according to your itinerary, keeping in mind Edinburgh's usual dining hours.

4. Contact the restaurant by phone or through their online reservation system to secure your table.

5. If your desired time is unavailable, ask to be put on a waiting list, or consider an alternate time or day.

6. Remember to confirm your reservation closer to the date, especially during busy seasons or events.